Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallOutdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchiTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Nespresso Vertuo capsules are defined mainly by the drink volume they are designed to produce, from a 25 ml Ristretto to a 535 ml Carafe. The capsule barcode tells a Vertuo machine which temperature, water volume, flow, rotation speed and contact time to use. Choose the format that matches your cup and drink style, then confirm that your exact Vertuo model supports it.
Vertuo capsule sizes at a glance
Nespresso’s UK catalogue lists six principal Vertuo formats. The Vertuo Pop manual dated 23 June 2025 also documents Ristretto and uses additional names for the 355 ml format. These are manufacturer-published output volumes, not independent measurements or taste scores.
| Format name | Published output | Typical use | Important qualification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ristretto | 25 ml | Very short, concentrated serving | Listed in the Vertuo Pop manual; the UK capsule catalogue’s main list starts at Espresso. |
| Espresso | 40 ml | Short espresso-format drink | Standard Vertuo espresso serving. |
| Double Espresso | 80 ml | Two-shot-style serving or a stronger base for milk | Twice the listed volume of Espresso, but not a universal taste ranking. |
| Gran Lungo | 150 ml | Longer black coffee between espresso and mug formats | Not the same size as either Double Espresso or Mug. |
| Mug | 230 ml | Everyday larger coffee | The Pop manual distinguishes Mug (S) and Mug (M) accessories; use the cup guidance for your model. |
| XL | 355 ml | Large-format coffee | The UK catalogue calls this XL; the Pop manual labels the corresponding size Alto/Cold Brew Style. |
| Carafe | 535 ml | Largest listed format for sharing or a large vessel | Requires a model and vessel that support the format. |
The 25, 40, 80, 150, 230, 355 and 535 ml figures are the product outputs published by Nespresso. They describe the standard intended preparation; they are not laboratory performance statistics. Your machine can dispense a different amount if you have reprogrammed the volume or if a model-specific setting changes the preparation.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →What the size names actually mean
They describe the intended cup volume
A Vertuo label is primarily a serving-format instruction. A Ristretto or Espresso capsule is portioned for a short drink, while Mug, XL and Carafe capsules contain a recipe intended for a progressively larger extraction. The name does not by itself guarantee a particular strength, bitterness or caffeine level. Blend, roast, and the way you drink the coffee still matter.
#1 Best Overall
- NESPRESSO VERTUOLINE VARIETY PACK ASSORTMENT: This Nespresso coffee assortment offers 30 Nespresso Pods in a variety of 3 best-selling coffee blends for the Nespresso VertuoLine System.10 Stormio, 10 Odacio, 10 Melozio
- INTENSITY: This assortment will let you explore the rich tastes of the following Nespresso Capsules: Stormio (Intensity 8), Odacio (Intensity 7) ; Melozio (Intensity 6). It's the perfect choice to discover a distinctive range of extraordinary coffees
- COFFEE BREWS 7.8 OZ : These Nespresso VertuoLine pods provide you with a 7.8 oz serving of coffee which is perfect for a longer drinking experience
- WE RECYCLE: Nespresso aluminum capsules are fully recyclable and guarantee coffee freshness - we provide different options for recycling your used aluminum coffee pods to fulfill our collective commitment to protecting the environment
- VERTUOLINE ONLY: Nespresso Vertuo delivers you a full range of cup sizes and coffee styles from espresso to Alto XL with easy to use Nespresso pods. Enjoy hot or pour over ice. (VertuoLine Capsules are not compatible with OriginalLine machines )
The barcode controls the recipe
Vertuo capsules carry a barcode that the machine reads when you close the head. Nespresso says this code lets the machine adjust brewing parameters such as temperature, crema production, flow, rotation speed and the time water and coffee remain in contact. The Vertuo Pop manual describes the process this way: "The machine will automatically recognize the inserted capsule and select the coffee preparation parameters and cup length defined by Nespresso coffee experts to extract the coffee blends at it’s best."
That automatic recipe is why a Vertuo capsule is not simply a generic pod that can be filled to any level. The machine is using the code to select a preparation profile as well as a target cup length.
Every Vertuo format explained
Ristretto — 25 ml
Ristretto is the shortest format identified in the Vertuo Pop manual. At 25 ml, it is intended for a compact, concentrated serving. It suits a small espresso cup and people who want a brief drink rather than a full mug. Because the format is documented in the Pop manual rather than the UK catalogue’s main size list, check whether Ristretto capsules are offered and supported in your market and model.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Espresso — 40 ml
Espresso is the familiar short format in the UK Vertuo range, with a listed output of 40 ml. It works as a small black coffee or as the base for a small milk drink. Nespresso’s UK capsule page lists decaffeinated choices in Espresso, so this is one of the first formats to check if you want decaf without moving to a larger cup.
Double Espresso — 80 ml
Double Espresso produces 80 ml, exactly twice the catalogue volume of Espresso. It gives you a larger espresso-format serving and is useful when milk, ice or another ingredient would overwhelm a single 40 ml shot. The volume difference does not mean every Double Espresso blend tastes twice as intense; intensity depends on the particular coffee.
Rank #2
- INDULGENT FLAVORS: This assortment of Nespresso Vertuo coffee pods contains a variety of Nespresso capsules: 10 Sweet Vanilla, 10 Golden Caramel, 10 Roasted Hazelnut
- BARISTA CREATIONS: A range of specialty Nespresso coffees inspired by baristas from around the world. The perfect blends to make your favorite coffee recipes from the comfort of your home and allowing you to unleash your inner barista.
- SUSTAINABILITY FIRST: From agroforestry to reviving lost coffees to fully recyclable capsules, join Nespresso, a certified B Corporation, on our journey to deliver the highest quality and most sustainable coffee moments.
- MACHINE COMPATIBILITY: Nespresso Vertuo pods are not compatible with Original Line machines.
Gran Lungo — 150 ml
Gran Lungo sits between the short espresso formats and the 230 ml Mug. Its 150 ml output makes it a useful choice when you want a longer black coffee but do not need a full mug. It is not simply a Double Espresso with extra water: the capsule is portioned and barcoded for its own extraction profile.
Mug — 230 ml
Mug is the standard larger coffee format in the UK list. A 230 ml serving fits many everyday coffee cups, but measure your preferred vessel if it has thick walls, a travel-cup shape or limited headroom for crema. The Pop manual’s accessory chart separates Mug (S) and Mug (M), so the word “Mug” on a capsule should not be treated as proof that every mug or glass accessory is suitable.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
XL or Alto/Cold Brew Style — 355 ml
The 355 ml format has two names in the supplied official material. Nespresso UK calls it XL, while the 2025 Vertuo Pop manual uses Alto/Cold Brew Style. Preserve the name shown for your market or machine documentation when shopping. This is a substantially larger drink than Mug and needs a tall or wide vessel with enough clearance under the outlet.
Carafe — 535 ml
Carafe is the largest listed Vertuo format at 535 ml. It is intended for a carafe-sized vessel or multiple servings rather than a standard espresso cup. Not every Vertuo machine supports it, and a machine that accepts a Carafe capsule may still require a specific carafe or platform arrangement. Confirm both capsule and vessel support before buying a sleeve.
Gran Lungo versus Double Espresso
These two labels are often confused because both are larger than Espresso. The practical difference is their intended format and volume:
Rank #3
- NESPRESSO VERTUO DOUBLE ESPRESSO VARIETY PACK: This Nespresso double espresso assortment offers 30 Nespresso Pods for the Nespresso Vertuo System. 10 Double Espresso Scuro, 10 Double Espresso Chiaro, and 10 Double Espresso Dolce.
- INTENSITY: This double espresso assortment will let you explore the rich tastes and differing notes of the following Nespresso capsules: Double Espresso Scuro (Intensity 11), Double Espresso Chiaro (Intensity 8), and Double Espresso Dolce (Intensity 5).
- DOUBLE ESPRESSO BREWS 2.7 FL. OZ.: These Nespresso Vertuo pods are part of the Double Espresso range that will provide you with a 2.7 fl. oz. serving of espresso which will help you double up on your single espresso coffee
- SAVOR WITH MILK: This coffee with milk alone, surprisingly prominent notes of caramel jump to the fore and a thick, creamy texture develops. These capsules are perfect for making cappuccinos and lattes.
- WE RECYCLE: Nespresso aluminum capsules are fully recyclable and guarantee coffee freshness - we provide different options for recycling your used aluminum coffee pods to fulfill our collective commitment to protecting the environment
| Double Espresso | Gran Lungo | |
|---|---|---|
| Published output | 80 ml | 150 ml |
| Drink style | Two-shot-style espresso serving | Longer black coffee |
| Best starting cup | Small cup, or a milk-drink glass with room for ingredients | Small-to-medium coffee cup |
| What it is not | Not automatically a stronger version of every other capsule | Not simply a Double Espresso topped up with water |
Choose Double Espresso when you want an espresso-format base with more coffee in the cup. Choose Gran Lungo when you want a longer serving without stepping up to the 230 ml Mug recipe.
Do Vertuo capsules fit every Nespresso machine?
No. Vertuo capsules are designed for Nespresso Vertuo machines only. They are not interchangeable with Nespresso Original capsules, and an Original machine should not be assumed to accept a Vertuo pod. The two systems use different capsule shapes and brewing technology.
Even within the Vertuo family, support for the largest formats varies. Nespresso UK states that XL and Carafe capsules are compatible with Vertuo Creatista, Lattissima, Next, POP and POP+ models. That is a UK support statement, so owners of older machines, region-specific editions or differently named models should verify the exact model number and local documentation before ordering.
| What you are checking | Why it matters | How to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Capsule system | Original and Vertuo capsules are different systems. | Read the machine name and manual; it must explicitly identify the Vertuo system. |
| Format support | XL and Carafe need more water, clearance and compatible programming. | Check the model’s current support list, especially for older or imported machines. |
| Vessel or accessory support | A capsule may run even when your preferred cup or carafe does not fit safely. | Use the accessory table and measure the space under the outlet. |
| Regional availability | Names, capsule assortment and supported models can differ by market. | Use the Nespresso site and manual for the country where the machine is sold. |
Capsule compatibility is separate from cup compatibility
The Vertuo Pop manual’s accessory table is narrower than a general capsule list. For that model, it marks Ristretto, Espresso, Double Espresso, Gran Lungo, Mug (S) and Mug (M), plus Reveal Glass, as suitable accessories. It marks Mug (L) and Carafe as not suitable. This table applies to the Pop manual and should not be generalized to every Vertuo machine.
Use the following checks before starting a large-format brew:
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Rank #4
- NESPRESSO VERTUO DISCOVERY PACK: This Nespresso coffee assortment offers 50 Nespresso Pods in a variety of 5 best- selling coffee blends for the Nespresso Vertuo System. 10 Melozio, 10 Stormio, 10 Double Espresso Chiaro, 10 Altissio, and 10 Ristretto Intenso.
- INTENSITY: This assortment will let you explore the rich tastes and differing notes of the following Nespresso Capsules: Melozio (Intensity 6), Stormio (Intensity 8), Double Espresso Chiaro (Intensity 8), Altissio (Intensity 9), and Ristretto Intenso (Intensity 12).
- COFFEE BREWS 0.85 Fl. oz for Ristretto Intenso, 1.35 fl. oz ESPRESSO for Altissio, 2.7 fl. oz for Double Espresso Chiaro; 7.77 fl. oz.COFFEE for Melozio and Stormio. These Nespresso Vertuo pods provide an ideal serving of coffee which is perfect for a longer drinking experience
- WE RECYCLE: Nespresso aluminum capsules are fully recyclable and guarantee coffee freshness - we provide different options for recycling your used aluminum coffee pods to fulfill our collective commitment to protecting the environment
- VERTUO ONLY: Nespresso Vertuo delivers you a full range of cup sizes and coffee styles with easy-to-use Nespresso pods. Enjoy hot or pour over ice. Vertuo Capsules are not compatible with Original machines.
- Confirm the capsule format is supported by your exact machine.
- Place the correct cup, glass or carafe on a stable surface before pressing the brew button.
- Leave headroom for crema and splashing, especially with 355 ml and 535 ml recipes.
- Do not force a large vessel into a space that does not provide clearance around the outlet or drip tray.
How to choose a capsule type after choosing the size
Start with the volume you actually drink
Pick the smallest format that comfortably fills your normal cup without dilution. Use Ristretto or Espresso for a short drink, Double Espresso for a larger espresso base, Gran Lungo for an intermediate black coffee, Mug for an everyday cup, and XL or Carafe only when your machine and vessel support the larger output.
Then choose the coffee profile
Within a format, Nespresso’s range can include permanent coffees, limited editions, seasonal flavours and decaffeinated options. The available assortment changes over time. The UK capsule page identifies decaf availability in Espresso, Double Espresso and Mug formats; it does not establish that every format is always offered in decaf.
Use the blend description, roast or intensity information supplied for the individual capsule as a preference guide, not as a universal ranking between sizes. There is no official basis for saying that a 230 ml Mug capsule is inherently better or worse than a 150 ml Gran Lungo.
Match the capsule to milk, ice or recipes
For a milk drink, Double Espresso gives more coffee volume than Espresso before milk is added. For a long black coffee, Gran Lungo or Mug may be more convenient than diluting a short capsule. Cold drinks and large recipes need enough vessel capacity for ice and other ingredients; a 355 ml or 535 ml capsule may leave less room than its nominal output suggests once ice is added.
Recommended Free Tools
How to brew the intended size
- Identify your machine as a Vertuo model and check its manual for the formats it supports.
- Choose a capsule whose labelled format matches your desired output and cup.
- Place a compatible cup or carafe under the coffee outlet, checking the model-specific accessory guidance.
- Insert the capsule with the dome or rounded side positioned as shown in the machine instructions, then close and lock the head.
- Press the brew button. The machine reads the barcode and selects the programmed extraction parameters and cup length.
- Wait until the machine stops before moving the vessel. The crema layer can make the cup appear fuller than the liquid volume at first.
- Empty the used capsule according to your local recycling or disposal instructions and wipe away any spill before the next brew.
Can you change the volume?
Yes. The Vertuo Pop manual says users can program a different volume for a capsule type. That means the printed format remains the standard recipe defined by Nespresso, while your machine may dispense a customized amount after programming.
Best Value
- SMOOTH & BALANCED: Through the coffee crema you’ll catch its aroma of delight. Melozio makes a smooth and flavorful black coffee, Americano or long black.
- MEDIUM ROAST: Split roasting these Arabica coffees allows the Brazilian Bourbon to develop its cereal note to become sweet and smooth, while the other lightly roasted Arabicas rounds out Melozio. Intensity 6.
- MELOZIO COFFEE BREWS 7.77 FL. OZ.: These Nespresso Vertuo pods provide you with a 7.77 fl. oz. serving of coffee which is perfect for a longer drinking experience
- SAVOR WITH MILK: Every Nespresso coffee is created to taste great both as a black coffee and as part of a milk with coffee recipe.
- SUSTAINABILITY FIRST: As a certified B Corporation, Nespresso meets the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, joining a global movement using business as a force for good. Nespresso aluminum capsules are fully recyclable and guarantee coffee freshness - we provide different options for recycling your used aluminum coffee pods to fulfill our collective commitment to protecting the environment
Customization is useful when a particular cup is smaller or larger than the nominal output, but it changes the balance intended for that capsule. Increasing water can make a short coffee taste thinner; reducing water creates a smaller, more concentrated serving. If a capsule repeatedly stops at an unexpected level, first check whether a custom volume has been stored before assuming the barcode or capsule is faulty.
Troubleshooting size and compatibility problems
The capsule does not fit
Stop rather than forcing the head closed. Confirm that the pod is a Vertuo capsule and that the machine is not an Original model. Check for a deformed capsule or an obstruction in the capsule holder. If the capsule system is correct but the format is XL or Carafe, verify model support in the local manual.
The output is smaller or larger than expected
Review the capsule label, then check whether a custom volume was programmed. The published figures are target outputs, not a promise that every customized setting will remain unchanged. Also check that the machine has enough water and that the capsule head is fully locked.
The cup overflows
Use a vessel at least as large as the labelled output with additional headroom for crema. A 230 ml Mug, 355 ml XL/Alto or 535 ml Carafe recipe may exceed the capacity of a small cup even when the liquid level initially looks low.
The large capsule is accepted but the accessory is unsuitable
Capsule recognition and accessory clearance are separate checks. Follow the model-specific accessory table; for the Vertuo Pop, Mug (L) and Carafe are marked unsuitable even though other formats and accessories are supported.
You cannot find a preferred flavour or decaf size
Availability changes as permanent, seasonal, limited-edition and flavoured coffees rotate. Search by format first, then review the currently listed blends. Decaf is specifically listed in Espresso, Double Espresso and Mug formats on the UK page, but availability in another country or at a later date can differ.
A simple buying decision
- Need a tiny, concentrated drink: Ristretto, where your model and market support it.
- Want a conventional short coffee: Espresso, 40 ml.
- Want more espresso coffee for milk or ice: Double Espresso, 80 ml.
- Want an in-between black coffee: Gran Lungo, 150 ml.
- Want a normal larger cup: Mug, 230 ml.
- Want a very large single serving: XL or Alto/Cold Brew Style, 355 ml, after checking machine support.
- Want the largest listed preparation: Carafe, 535 ml, only with a compatible machine and vessel.
The reliable order is volume first, machine compatibility second, and blend preference third. Vertuo’s barcode system then supplies the recipe associated with that capsule format.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
